Biomechanics of the Breast Flashcards
What are the four kinds of problems arising for limited intrinsic support of the breasts?
- Breast pain
- Breast damage
- Performance effects
- Psychological effects
Which people are more likely to experience breast pain?
- Older
- Larger breasts
- Less fit and active
What is the prevalence of breast pain in the UK
51.5%
How does breast damage occur?
The breasts naturally lose their elasticity as a female ages but this is worsened by repeated loading. Irreversible damage can occur at 60% strain
How is breast skin strain measured?
The percentage extension between breast markers in a gravity and non-gravity loaded position
What are the four different elements of performance affected by breast support?
- Muscle activity
- Rating of perceived exertion
- Breathing frequency
- Kinetics
How does breast support affect muscle activity?
Lower breast support increases tension in muscles due to breast pain experienced
How does breast support affect rating of perceived exertion?
The greater the breast support, the lower the rating
How does breast support affect breathing frequency?
Wearing no bra made for more frequent and less oxygen-rich breathing.
How does breast support affect kinetics?
Sports bras lead to an increase in stride length
What are the psychological effects of breast support?
Poor breast support prevents people from taking part in sports because they’re embarrassed about breast movement or worried about pain
Lactiferous sinus reference
Zucca-matthes et al., (2016) - no lactiferous sinuses visible
Good sports bra reference
Yu et al., (2016) - breathable material, good upward support, thick straps
Pros of sports bras reference
White et al., (2011) - better breathing, better kinetics
Boundaries to exercise reference
Burnett et al., (2014) - breasts > costs and facilities
